A fun activity to test participants’ problem-solving skills also served as a fundraiser, highlighting the way Emporia State University’s University Libraries and Archives department helped to support an important campus initiative. The fall 2023 event, part of the library’s week of activities designed to give students a breather before finals, featured a “Stranger Things”-themed escape room. Once the students had a chance to participate, the escape room was opened to ESU departments and the Emporia community.
For a small fee, players could partake in the activity with all proceeds donated to Corky’s Cupboard, ESU’s local food pantry for students. In the short time the event was available, approximately $300 was raised.
Alex Mosakowski, a library staff member and assistant professor, shared the thinking behind the decision to reoffer the escape room as a fundraiser.
“The University Libraries and Archives wanted to give back to the students, so we decided to give the proceeds to Corky’s Cupboard,” recalled Mosakowski. “Students often lack the basic needs to support their education, and one of those areas is being able to afford food. We are happy to donate the proceeds to Corky’s to fill their pantry with free, healthy foods for students.”
The ULA team plans to continue the multipurpose fundraiser activities, serving students by providing a fun event while also supporting a worthy cause.